What Kind of Nutritionist Am I? Understanding the Path (and the Title) in Australia

In Australia, “nutritionist” is not a protected title. That means anyone can technically call themselves a nutritionist—even without formal training. But there’s a world of difference between someone who’s read a few articles online or done a month course in nutrition to someone who has spent years studying and applying the science of nutrition in real-world settings.

So, what kind of Nutritionist am I?

I’m a nationally recognised nutritionist, registered with Nutrition Council Australia. My qualification comes from a government-accredited course delivered through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)—a rigorous, formal pathway that meets national standards. While I’m not a clinical nutritionist, dietician or RN, I am credentialed to assess nutritional needs and create evidence-based plans that support individual health goals.

Let me walk you through how I got here.

My Journey into Nutrition

Twelve years ago, I began my education in health and nutrition through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) in New York. It was a full year of intensive study in holistic health coaching and nutritional science. That foundational experience helped shape my understanding of the connections between food, behaviour, and long-term health.

Since then, I’ve spent the past nine years working as a health and wellbeing coach across Australia’s corporate landscape—supporting high-performing professionals to optimise their energy, resilience, and lifestyle through science-backed strategies.

Levelling Up: From Coaching to Nutritionist

Even with years of experience, I wanted to deepen my technical knowledge—specifically, to design and deliver tailored nutrition plans. A traditional degree wasn’t viable given my commitments: running three businesses, writing a book, and coaching full-time.

That’s when I discovered an alternative pathway: a nationally recognised course delivered through an RTO, approved by the government and supported by Skills Checkpoint—a program designed to help Australians over 45 retrain or upskill. I was initially sceptical, but after thorough due diligence, I confirmed the legitimacy and quality of the program. I secured a government grant and committed to a year of intensive study.

This wasn’t a “tick-the-box” qualification. The curriculum covered nutritional biochemistry, dietary planning, supplement protocols, health assessment, and therapeutic diets—more nutrition education than most general medical degrees provide.

So, What Does That Make Me?

Here’s how I define my practice:

Nationally Recognised, Evidence-Based

I hold a recognised credential that qualifies me to create individualised nutrition plans and provide guidance grounded in science.

Not Clinical, But Deeply Trained

I don’t diagnose or treat disease in a clinical setting, but I work closely with clients on diet, some supplementation, energy management, and performance optimisation.

Coaching-Driven, Science-Informed

My coaching background means I don’t just hand over a plan—I help people implement it. I use behavioural science, mindset work, and tracking tools to support lasting change.

Real-Life Nutrition for Real People

Having built this path while managing multiple businesses, I get how chaotic life can be. The plans I create are practical, flexible, and designed for high-functioning, time-poor individuals.

Being a nutritionist in Australia comes with nuance. The title alone doesn’t guarantee quality—but credentials, experience, and practical outcomes do. I’ve walked the path from health coach to formally trained, nationally recognised nutritionist—not just to add a title, but to better serve those looking to optimise their health in a meaningful, evidence-based way.

If you’re looking for nutrition support that’s personalised, informed, and grounded in the real world—not just theory—I’d love to help.